Texas Veterans Land Board approves $45K budget increase for cemetery staff salaries

The Nueces County Budget Workshop held on July 10, 2025, focused on several key funding requests and budgetary adjustments aimed at improving services for veterans and maintaining cemetery operations.

The meeting began with discussions surrounding the funding for the cemetery, which is primarily supported by the state of Texas through the General Land Office and the Veterans Land Board. Officials highlighted a request for an increase in the budget, specifically for staff salaries. Currently, the lowest-paid staff members earn $15 an hour, which poses challenges in retaining quality workers. To address this issue, an additional $45,000 was secured for the cemetery budget, representing a 5% increase aimed at improving staff retention.

In addition to salary increases, the meeting addressed ongoing and future projects at the cemetery. A significant expansion project costing $10 million was noted, along with a planned roadway project funded by the state at a cost of $80,000. These projects are designed to enhance the cemetery's facilities without impacting the county's budget.

The discussion also included a request for an additional $1,000 in the budget for food and kitchen expenses. This funding is intended to provide a cushion for unexpected costs related to the Texas Veterans Commission's assistance grants. Officials reported a significant reduction in instances where veterans purchased non-allowable items, indicating improved management since the merger in October.

Overall, the workshop underscored the county's commitment to supporting veterans and enhancing cemetery services through strategic budget adjustments and state funding initiatives. The next steps will involve monitoring the implementation of these budgetary changes and the progress of ongoing projects.